Description
This Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Peanut-Lime Sauce is a flavorful and tender dish featuring a perfectly grilled pork tenderloin marinated in a vibrant mixture of apricot preserves, garlic, soy sauce, and peanut butter. The tangy and slightly spicy peanut-lime sauce complements the smoky grilled pork, making it an impressive yet easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pork Tenderloin and Marinade
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
- 1/4 cup apricot preserves
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1 lime (juiced)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine apricot preserves, minced garlic, ground coriander, soy sauce, rice vinegar, creamy peanut butter, lime juice, fresh orange juice, crushed red pepper flakes, and ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and the peanut butter is fully incorporated.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin and the prepared marinade into a large ziplock bag. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing flavors to infuse, and up to 48 hours for maximum taste.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to high heat, preparing it for direct cooking.
- Grill the Pork (First Side): Place the pork tenderloin on the hot grill, reserving the marinade. Close the lid and cook for 5 minutes to sear and lock in juices.
- Grill the Pork (Second Side): Flip the tenderloin over without changing the grill temperature. Close the lid and cook for an additional 6 minutes, ensuring even cooking.
- Rest on the Grill: Turn off the grill but keep the lid closed. Let the pork rest on the grill for 5 minutes; this helps retain moisture and completes cooking gently.
- Check Doneness: Verify the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F to ensure safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
- Rest before Slicing: Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the pork rests, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil and cook for about 1 minute to ensure safety. Add water or extra orange juice if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- Serve: Slice the pork tenderloin, drizzle with the warm peanut-lime sauce, and sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the top. Serve with the remaining sauce alongside cauliflower rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the pork for longer (up to 48 hours) enhances flavor penetration.
- Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
- You can substitute creamy peanut butter with natural peanut butter, but the sauce texture may vary slightly.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- Serving suggestions include pairing with cauliflower rice or grilled seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.